About Contra

If you can walk, you can Contra. No prior experience is needed.

Contra is a form of social folkdance similar to Square dancing. However, instead of four pairs in a square formation, many couples form long lines, which they progress up and down throughout the dance. Contra is not just a dance; it is a community event. Dancers change partners after every dance, and each dance lasts approximately ten minutes.

Dancing follows the instructions of a Caller, who tells dancers what moves to do in time with the music. The Caller will teach new moves as they are needed throughout the night.

During the dancing, the two people in each pair may be doing different things, which will be designated by the Caller using Role Terms. Traditionally, the roles for Contra dancing are "Ladies and Gentlemen". However, many contemporary Contra communities use gender-free role terms. This event will use the terms Larks and Robins - Larks are on the Left in the direction that the couple is facing, and Robins are on the Right. Anyone can dance any role throughout the evening, and some advanced dancers may even switch roles with their partner in the middle of the dance! Just dance with whoever is coming at you!

For more information about Contra, a good website to read is:
‍https://thedancefacts.com/dance-list/contra-dance/

Here are a few videos to show you what contra dancing can be like: